Do you need help phishing?

Security experts warn that attackers are using increasingly sophisticated emails that mimic trusted companies, tricking users into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information. Several reported incidents involved fake account verification requests and urgent password reset prompts, which led to compromised accounts.

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Daniel Masterson, Ai Courtrie Buson & Bard Gee
September 19, 2025

for the week September 14, 2025, 90th edition

☝️ TWA

No matter how you cut it, getting phished is not fun

As Reuters employs LLM AI chatbot to demonstrate its point in the story, it is past time that we adopt the practice of utilizing Personal Identifiers to conduct thorough verification of the individuals we engage with.

🤷‍♀️ What now?: Be cautious when using social media and always use Personal Identifiers.

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about this edition and Inside Hexagon

I was chatting with family online when suddenly someone said I need you to verify yourself. It occurred to me that there is nothing wrong with that. Especially because we publish HX Weekly, we should be encouraging people - family and friends - to use Personal Identifiers as much as possible.

Authorities emphasize the importance of double-checking sender addresses, avoiding suspicious attachments, and enabling two-factor authentication. Staying alert and educating employees about these tactics remains the most effective defense against these evolving phishing threats.

In 10 weeks, we will be celebrating the 100th edition of HX Weekly.

Hexagon Center is growing. We are continually coming up with new ways to safeguard you and the organizations that serve you. Please send in any suggestions that you may have by replying to this email. In addition to your efforts in raising awareness about the cyber threats we encounter in the real world, we encourage you to share and ask people to subscribe to HX Weekly.

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Glossary/Legend:

  • Personal Identifier - A unique word or phrase shared exclusively with an individual or a group, serving as a means of identification and affirmation within the established relationship. It is recommended that 2 or more Personal Identifiers be established per person.

  • Cyberattack - A malicious attempt to gain unauthorized access to a computer system, network, or device. The goal of a cyberattack is to disrupt or damage the target, or to steal data, intellectual property, or money.

  • Malware (short for malicious software) - refers to any intrusive software developed by cybercriminals (often called hackers) to steal data and damage or destroy computers and computer systems.

  • Ransomware - A type of malware that locks or encrypts a victim's files and demands a ransom payment to unlock and decrypt them. Ransomware can infect a variety of devices, including computers, smartphones, printers, and more.

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Even though we aim to provide you the most current and critical information to keep you safe, threat actors work 24/7 and this newsletter publishes only once a week. Even though we are available via a hotline, it is crucial that you stay up to date via other sources as well to be informed on how you may be at risk.

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DISCLAIMER

Cybersecurity is an ever-changing field, and threats may evolve. While Hexagon Center strives to provide accurate and timely information, we cannot guarantee absolute security. Users are responsible for implementing their security measures and staying informed about the latest cybersecurity developments. Hexagon Center is not responsible for any cyber or scam attacks by our readers. HX Weekly tips are advice are not official positions of Hexagon Center nor is Hexagon Center responsible for its content.

Content of this newsletter is not an official representation of Hexagon Center.

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